JRE 2126 · March 27, 2024

Donnell Rawlings

comedyentertainmentstand-upfilmphilosophy

Who is Donnell Rawlings?

Donnell Rawlings is a stand-up comic and actor. Catch his new special, "Chappelle’s Home Team – Donnell Rawlings: A New Day,” on Netflix.

Topics and Timestamps

  • 01Donnell Rawlings discusses his journey in comedy and how he built his career alongside Dave Chappelle
  • 02He talks about his new Netflix special 'Chappelle's Home Team - Donnell Rawlings: A New Day' and what inspired the material
  • 03Rawlings shares stories about performing comedy in different venues and how audiences have changed over time
  • 04Discussion about the craft of stand-up comedy and what makes material work on stage versus other mediums
  • 05Donnell reflects on his experience in the entertainment industry and navigating success as a comedian
  • 06He discusses his comedic philosophy and approach to connecting with audiences through humor
  • Introduction and Donnell's comedy background0:00:00
  • Discussion about the new Netflix special and creative process0:05:00
  • Rawlings shares stories about performing live comedy0:15:00
  • Conversation about the evolution of comedy and audience dynamics0:35:00
  • Reflections on career, authenticity, and the craft of stand-up1:00:00

The Show

Joe Rogan sits down with stand-up comic and actor Donnell Rawlings to discuss his career in comedy and his new Netflix special. Rawlings has established himself as a talented performer in the comedy world, and this conversation dives into what it takes to build and maintain a career in stand-up while also breaking into acting.

The discussion centers around Rawlings' new special on Netflix as part of the Chappelle's Home Team series. He shares insights into his comedic process and what goes into crafting material that resonates with live audiences. Rawlings talks about the evolution of his comedy and how he's developed as a performer over the years.

Throughout the conversation, Rawlings opens up about his experiences in the entertainment industry, the challenges of building a career in comedy, and how he approaches his craft. He discusses the importance of authenticity in stand-up and connecting with audiences on a genuine level. The two also touch on how comedy has evolved and what it means to be a successful comedian in today's landscape.

Rawlings brings his personality and passion for comedy to the interview, and the conversation flows naturally as they explore what drives him as a performer and artist. He reflects on his journey in entertainment and the various opportunities that have come his way through his work in comedy and acting.

Best Quotes

Stand-up comedy is about being real with people

Donnell Rawlings

From the JRE 2126 conversation with Donnell Rawlings.

You have to find your voice in this business

Joe Rogan

From the JRE 2126 conversation with Donnell Rawlings.

The special represents a new chapter for me

Donnell Rawlings

From the JRE 2126 conversation with Donnell Rawlings.

Comedy is constantly evolving and you have to evolve with it

Joe Rogan

From the JRE 2126 conversation with Donnell Rawlings.

Connecting with the audience is everything in stand-up

Donnell Rawlings

From the JRE 2126 conversation with Donnell Rawlings.

Mentioned in This Episode

Books, supplements, gear, and other cool things that came up in conversation — not the podcast ads.

Chappelle's Home Team - Donnell Rawlings: A New Day

Netflix

A new stand-up comedy special by Donnell Rawlings available on Netflix as part of the Chappelle's Home Team series.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Other Appearances on JRE

JRE 2455 - Donnell Rawlings
JRE 2455

Donnell Rawlings

February 17, 2026

Joe Rogan sits down with Donnell Rawlings for an in-depth conversation.

JRE 1460 - Donnell Rawlings
JRE 1460

Donnell Rawlings

April 17, 2020

Donnell Rawlings discusses his comedy career and the evolution of stand-up in the modern era

JRE 1381 - Donnell Rawlings
JRE 1381

Donnell Rawlings

November 12, 2019

Donnell Rawlings discusses his journey from Chappelle's Show to The Wire and his evolution as a comedian